Cystic fibrosis (CF) causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus. This mucus can build up in the lungs, digestive tract and other areas of the body.
Sometimes, mucus also builds up in the pancreas. This can damage the cells that make insulin (beta cells).
This damage can cause the body to lose its ability to make enough insulin. Insulin is what keeps blood sugars in a healthy range.
How is it treated?
If your child has CF, the team may suggest doing an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to see if their pancreas is still working.
If the test shows that your child has CFRD, the diabetes team will check on your child every 3 months.
Your child will likely need to start insulin to help manage their blood sugar levels.
